We have all had that grandparent that has joked with us as kids by popping out their dentures, which is hilarious! But…
It’s not quite as funny when it’s YOUR teeth!
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the earliest form of gum disease. This can be caused by plaque buildup around your teeth. It can make your gums inflamed, red and sometimes will cause bleeding. If this is not treated in a timely manner it can cause periodontal disease which could lead to tooth loss if not treated appropriately. If you are experiencing any pain or bleeding please come see us at Periodontal Associates with Drs Heller, Beckman, and Hyer. Gingivitis is the mildest and most common type of gum disease. It is a result of the bacteria present in your mouth and causes the gums to be swollen, inflamed, and infected. It can be common in people of all ages. Fortunately, gingivitis does not lead to bone loss and is reversible with periodontal treatment. A common treatment would be either a professional cleaning along with good home maintenance (brushing and flossing) or with a deep cleaning, commonly referred to as scaling and root planing.
“You don’t have to brush all your teeth, just the ones you want to keep.”
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing for two minutes twice a day and flossing every day to help fight gum disease and tooth decay. Gingivitis is common in children and adults, mainly due to having an inconsistent oral routine. Depending on how much plaque builds up, you may want to see your dentist every three months to ensure you are getting the best results.
How to treat Gum Disease?
If Gingivitis does proceed to periodontitis (bone loss), you will need a more extensive treatment plan to address the issue. Treatments include scaling and root planing, which is a deep cleaning typically with an anesthetic. Scaling helps remove plaque and tartar under the gum line and root planing smoothes the tooth root which helps the gum reattach to the tooth. In more advanced cases it may be necessary to have gum surgery.
Symptoms of Gingivitis:
- Red, puffy gums
- Bleeding gums
- Sore Gums
- Tooth Pain or Sensitivity
- Bad Breath
- Loose teeth
If you are having any symptoms of Periodontal Disease or just need someone to talk to about your concern, please contact us and we would be happy to assist you. Please call our office at (303) 755-4500. Drs Heller, Beckman, Thousand, Hyer, and staff look forward to hearing from you!